Q&A

Nicky Gavron, 61, is the daughter of a Jewish refugee from Nazi Germany. At 23, she met Bob Gavron, now a Labour peer. They married and had two daughters, before divorcing. In 1986, she became a Labour councillor, after 15 years as a community activist. She is the London Assembly member for Enfield and Haringey, and has been deputy mayor since 2000. Gavron is Labour's candidate for mayor in the 2004 election. So far, she is the only female candidate.

What is your idea of perfect happiness? Being Labour mayor of London.

What is your greatest fear? Losing the people close to me.

Which living person do you most admire? Aung San Suu Kyi.

What is the trait you most deplore in others? Not listening to people.

What makes you depressed? The gap between rich and poor.

What do you most dislike about your appearance? Chaotic hair.

What objects do you always carry with you? My mobile phone and 300-weight of papers.

What is your greatest regret? That my mother didn't have the opportunities I've had.

What is your most unappealing habit? I have huge difficulty with throwing anything away.

How will you vote in the next election? For myself, of course!

Do you believe in capital punishment? No.

For what cause would you die? For my children.

Do you believe in monogamy? Yes.

What do you consider the most overrated virtue? Meekness.

Have you ever said 'I love you' and not meant it? No.

Which words or phrases do you most overuse? 'Have you seen my phone?'

How do you relax? With friends and family.

What single thing would improve the quality of your life? Being able to be in two places at once.

How would you like to die? With dignity.

How would you like to be remembered? As someone who made a difference.

What is the most important lesson life has taught you? Listen to people - they know more than you think!

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